Alcohol legislation: 'Health education remains the most effective weapon'

Published on Tuesday 3 March 2009 09:06

Evening News comment WITH alcohol-related deaths in Scotland running at almost double the UK average it is not surprising that the SNP Government has unveiled a raft of measures aimed at curbing irresponsible drinking.

Whether they will be effective enough in persuading those that choose to drink to excess to change their ways is another matter.

At least in drafting its plans the Government has taken account of public opinion and in the current economic climate has backed off from introducing some elements that would have damaged small businesses by incurring them extra costs.

Plans to have alcohol-only check-outs and to raise the age where a person can buy drink in an off sales to 21 have been shelved – although it is proposed to give councils the powers to raise the age of purchase should they choose.

The latter is a far better solution than a nationwide raising of the legal age and it could well be an idea that wins support in local areas with a particular problem, such as a high incidence of under-age drinkers.

In an attempt to end cheap promotions, it is proposed that Scotland become the first country in Europe to set a minimum price per unit. On the surface it seems a bold measure but critics have already rounded on the measure, branding it ineffective as in reality prices will change little, and in some cases could actually provide leeway for some products to become cheaper.

While the SNP is without doubt well-intentioned, it is difficult to see in real terms how its raft of measures will have significant impact. The real issue is not about price or availability and those determined to drink to excess will do so regardless of how much it costs and how difficult it is made to obtain.

The previous government's crowning achievement in health terms was without doubt the banning of smoking in public places. Compared to curbing alcohol abuse that was a relatively simple and easy exercise and the challenges facing the country over drink are far more complex and will not be solved overnight. So where does the Government look for solutions?

Health education may not seem a glamorous answer but surely it remains the most effective weapon, if the health and potential social consequences of problem drinking are taught from an early age. Sadly, too many parents are poor role models and many children grow up in an environment where heavy drinking is viewed as an acceptable part of daily life.